Sammie Kate Eason

2020 "Pass the Torch" Scholarship Finalist

“Our teacher was brave enough to soar through the sky. I remember thinking to myself that if she was that bold and courageous in her life outside of the classroom, maybe she could teach me to be that way too.”

In this vivid recollection of the excitement of second grade, Sammie Kate Eason pays homage to her teacher, Mrs. Melissa Word. Mrs. Word’s classroom was one where every student felt capable and valued – a class of “whiz kids” whose achievements were celebrated in a special anthology called “Proud to Be Me.” Today, Sammie Kate hopes to become a teacher who can touch the hearts and minds of her students, just like Mrs. Word.

Here is Sammie Kate's story about Mrs. Word, the teacher who inspired her.

Want to hear the stories of the other nine finalists? Visit our 2020 Scholarship Finalists page.

Thinking of applying to this year's program? Learn more on our Teachers Test Prep "Pass the Torch" Teacher Scholarships page.